New 8-tonne JCB excavators offer tail swing options

By: Brad Lockyer

Date: 20.01.2015

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JCB has announced the release of two new models in its eight-tonne-class mini/midi excavator range, the 85Z-1 and 86C-1. Available in both zero and conventional tail swing options, the two models are part of JCB’s plan to offer both options across its entire range.

JCB's new 8.6-tonne 86C-1 midi excavator.

The 8.3-tonne 85Z-1 is a zero tail swing mode, designed for use on worksites with limited working space. This is achieved by making the cab much narrower so that as it turns, the tail of the cab does not extend beyond the width of the tracks.

For those working on sites with a bit more room to move, the 8.6-tonne 86C-1 is a conventional tail swing model where the trade-off for an extended swing area is added stability and increased leverage.

"The zero tail swing is there for those who really need it to be able to work on tight sites, but for those without those kinds of constraints the conventional model gives additional stability, reach, digging depth and dump height," JCB CEA national product manager Glenn McLeod says.

The new excavators feature a full auto-lock quick hitch as standard, allowing attachments to be interchanged with JCB backhoes.

Also standard for the Australian market is the ‘JCB Diesel by Kohler’ 48kW Tier 4 Final compliant engine, a product of the recent partnership between JCB and engine manufacturer Kohler. The engines have been specifically designed to increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, eliminating the need for a diesel particulate filter.

JCB claims the improved engine produces fuel savings of 15 per cent when compared to the Tier 3 engine in the previous model.

A new ROPS cab has been implemented for both models, with more leg room and improved visibility, according to JCB. Inside the cab the LCD display screen gives the operator readouts of engine hours, time to next service and fuel level along with the regular display, reminding them when the machine needs servicing or refuelling.

All daily maintenance check points on the new models have been grouped together near ground level to allow for easy access. The cab can also be tilted forward to simplify maintenance access even further.

Even the dozer blade has seen an improvement over previous models, with the new design aiming to reduce soil retention when the blade is raised, while at the same time improving material roll while it is dozing. An angled blade and blade float are now available as options.